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Can I claim for an accident caused by a pothole?
Yes, if the defect was large enough and not repaired within statutory timescales. To succeed in a claim against Glasgow City Council, you must show:
The defect existed - clear photographic evidence with measurements
It was dangerous - size, depth, location, and visibility matter
The council knew or should have known - through inspections or prior reports
They failed to repair it - within a reasonable time after becoming aware
The defect caused your accident - direct link between defect and injury/damage
Councils have a statutory defence if they can prove they had a reasonable system of inspection and maintenance in place and followed it. An FCA-authorised firm can assess whether your claim is likely to succeed.
What evidence is required for pothole claims?
Strong evidence is critical for pothole and road defect claims. Gather as much as possible at the scene:
Photos of the defect
Take multiple photos from different angles. Include a ruler or coin for scale. Show the defect in context with surrounding road/pavement.
Measurements
Measure length, width, and depth of the pothole or defect. Write down the measurements and date/time you took them.
Exact location
Note the street name, nearest junction, and GPS coordinates if possible. Glasgow City Council uses grid references for their records.
Police report
If serious injury or vehicle damage occurred, report it to Police Scotland. The incident number will be valuable evidence.
Medical notes
Attend A&E or your GP as soon as possible. Medical records linking your injury to the accident are essential.
Repair invoices
For vehicle damage, keep all repair quotes, invoices, and receipts. Photos of the damage before repair are also helpful.
How do I report a road defect to Glasgow City Council?
Even if you intend to claim, it's good practice to report the defect so it can be repaired and prevent further accidents. Glasgow City Council has an online reporting system:
Use the Report a Road Defect form - available on Glasgow City Council's website
Provide measurements - length, depth, width of the pothole or defect
Attach photographs - upload your photos with the report
Give exact location - street name, nearest junction, postcode
Keep a copy - note your report reference number and date submitted
The council will categorise the defect and set a repair timescale. If they fail to repair it within that time and someone else is injured, your report becomes evidence that they had notice.
Note: Reporting the defect does not mean you are making a claim. If you want to pursue compensation, you will need to submit a separate claim or instruct an FCA-authorised firm to do so on your behalf.
What are common road defect scenarios?
Road defect claims in Glasgow typically involve:
Cyclists thrown off due to deep potholes
Cyclists are particularly vulnerable. A deep pothole can cause the front wheel to jam, throwing the rider over the handlebars. Injuries range from broken collarbones and wrists to head injuries.
Motorcyclists losing control on uneven surfaces
Motorcyclists can lose control when hitting a pothole or uneven road surface at speed. This often results in the rider being thrown from the bike and sustaining serious injuries.
Pedestrians tripping on defective pavements
Raised paving slabs, broken kerbs, or sunken grates can cause pedestrians to trip and fall. Common injuries include fractured wrists, ankles, and hips (especially in older people).
Vehicle damage from large potholes
Cars, vans, and taxis can suffer tyre damage, wheel rim damage, or suspension damage from hitting large potholes. Repair costs can run into hundreds or thousands of pounds.
Utility company excavations left unsafe
Sometimes utility companies (water, gas, electricity) excavate roads and fail to reinstate them properly. If this causes an accident, the utility company may be liable rather than the council.